1. Take Short Showers

I agree that there’s nothing like standing in a hot shower on a cold winter’s night. However, experts recommend taking short showers because all that hot water can really dehydrate your skin, worsening chapping. So, one of the best ways to treat chapped skin is to reduce the amount of time you spend under the shower’s spray. At the same time, use cooler water and pat dry instead of rubbing dry.

2. Change Your Shaving Technique

Nothing is worse than having to shave your legs when your skin is chapped. Sounds downright nasty, huh? You can still get the job done while also treating the chapping. Start by using a lubricant, such as shaving cream or hair conditioner. Never, ever dry shave. Make sure you replace your razor often because a sharper blade is easier on your skin. Shave in the direction of your hair too. Easy enough, right?

3. Use Petroleum Jelly

I know there is some debate about the safety of using petroleum jelly, otherwise known as Vaseline, on your skin. However, most experts concur that it’s one of the best ways to treat chapped skin. A thin coat provides a barrier against the elements so the situation doesn’t get worse, while also soaking into your skin, provided much needed moisture and hydration. If you’re worried about using petroleum jelly, talk to your doctor first.

4. Plug in a Humidifier

Using a humidifier in the winter is an easy and really effective way to add moisture back into the air. Because dry air is one of the contributors to chapped skin, keeping it moist can help combat the condition. You definitely want to use a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep, but you might consider putting one in a couple of other rooms in your house too.

5. Switch Soaps

If you’re suffering from chapped skin, switching up the kind of soap you use can help. Harsh chemicals can exacerbate the problem, which is why most doctors suggest choosing a mild soap instead. Look for something with natural ingredients as well as a short list of them. Look for mild versions of your body wash and hand soap and you should notice an improvement pretty quickly.

6. Moisturize Often

Here’s another easy way to pump moisture back into your skin. Don’t just put lotion on once or twice per day. Slather it on as often as possible. It’s especially important to put it on after a shower when your skin is still damp. The more you use, the more moisturized your skin will be.

7. Eat Right

A healthy diet ensures that your body is getting enough nutrients that support healthy skin. That includes protein, vitamin A and vitamin E. Each of these nutrients plays a role in your skin health so making sure you get enough can help fight chapped skin and may even prevent it from coming back. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts and seeds and you should be covered.

Do you have chapped skin? It’s an occasional problem for me, especially when the weather gets cold outside. Do you have any other great tips to share for treating chapped skin?